Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)

An upper respiratory infection (also called a cold) affects the upper part of your respiratory system, including your sinuses and throat. Upper respiratory infection symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat and cough. Most upper respiratory illnesses are viral and do not require antibiotics. Treatment for upper respiratory infections often includes rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relievers. These infections usually go away on their own. Antibiotics are for bacterial infections, and since most URI's are caused by a virus, they do not get better faster with an antibiotic.

Upper respiratory infections typically last one to two weeks. Most of the time, they go away on their own. Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help you feel better. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

If you have a fever over 100.4 or your symptoms last longer than two weeks, call Richmond Family Medicine for advice or to schedule an appointment. You may have another condition that is causing the symptoms, such as a sinus infection, influenza, pneumonia or bronchitis.

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)
COVID
Tick Bites